Can You Still Look Fabulous for Work in this Heat?
YES you can! But it needs some thought, after all, dressing for work in this steamy heat, commuting to and from work or running to meetings, is obviously very different from your holiday wardrobe, primarily how much skin is on show or not. For footwear, Havianna’s are definitely an office no,no. But if you’re not client facing, office wear is definitely more relaxed post covid. (Sorry to mention the ‘C’ word 🤦♀️)
We are so used to layering up for most of the year, this “wear as little as possible” season has taken both us and retail by shock. And I’m sure we can all agree that by the fifth heatwave, getting dressed has become an Olympic sport.
Natural Fabrics are your Best Friend
When it’s this hot, fabric matters more than fashion trends. Anything that allows air to circulate will instantly feel cooler than tight synthetic fabrics. Oversized shirts, various lengths of shorts; age, legs and job depending. Relaxed trousers, floaty dresses, and easy co-ords are instant results. A loose white shirt worn open over a vest top with linen shorts or wide-leg trousers looks effortlessly stylish and keeps the heat off.
- Linen – yes, it creases, but that’s part of the charm
- Linen mix – If you really can’t handle the creases
- Cotton
- Lightweight viscose
- Soft gauze fabrics
- Loose woven blends
Dresses – That One Stop Shop
If you’re struggling to get it right every morning, this is your time to wear a dress. A midi or maxi dress in a breathable fabric is the easiest one-and-done outfit. The length makes it easier to choose a flat sandal, add a work bag, throw in a cardi or pashmina, just in case your aircon is too high, and you’re good to go.
The Shorts Question
Yes, you can wear summer shorts at any age.
The key is finding the length that makes you feel confident. Tailored shorts, Bermuda shorts and linen shorts are all incredibly current and can look far more polished than very short styles.
Pair them with a crisp shirt or relaxed blouse and they become a grown-up summer outfit rather than beachwear.
My Heatwave Uniform
- A white linen oversized shirt
- A white ribbed vest
- Linen wide-leg trousers
- Knee length or below tailored shorts
- Easy midi dresses
- Comfortable sandals
- A great pair of sunglasses
- Fine layered necklaces
Mix and match those pieces and you’ll have endless outfits that feel cool, stylish and completely effortless.
The most important thing to remember is that style should make your life easier, not harder. This isn’t the week for complicated outfits, heavy makeup, or uncomfortable shoes. Embrace the relaxed summer mood, choose fabrics that breathe, and let your clothes do the hard work for you.
For advice tailored to you, book a personal styling session today.
Enjoy
Suzanne x.
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